Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
This Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!) recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish features tender beef and vibrant broccoli, all coated in a rich, homemade sauce that surpasses any takeout option. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this quick and flavorful dish promises to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a homemade meal without the wait.
- Flavorful Sauce: The addictive sauce made from scratch elevates the dish with its sweet and savory notes.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and nutritious broccoli, this dish is both satisfying and healthy.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for serving over rice or noodles, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences.
- Budget-Friendly: Save money by making this delightful dish at home rather than ordering takeout.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to gather the right tools to make your Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!) experience seamless.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Cooking tongs
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ensures even cooking for both beef and broccoli while providing ample space for stirring.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining sauce ingredients quickly before adding them to the skillet.
- Whisk or fork: Helps achieve a smooth sauce consistency by thoroughly mixing ingredients.
- Cooking tongs: Perfect for flipping the beef without losing tenderness during cooking.
Ingredients
This easy beef and broccoli recipe has an addictive sauce that’s super quick to make from scratch! It rivals even the best takeout, yet it’s way more affordable.
For the Beef
- 1 pound flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
For the Broccoli
- 3-4 cups broccoli florets (see note)
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (see note)
- 1/4 cup (packed) brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
How to Make Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
First, prep everything ahead of time as the actual cooking part goes very quickly.
1. Trim off any fat from the flank steak.
2. Slice it across the grain into very thin bite-size pieces.
3. In a mixing bowl, add all the sauce ingredients and whisk together thoroughly.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large skillet over high heat. Let the pan heat up for a few minutes until the oil is shimmering.
1. Add the broccoli florets.
2. Cook for 4-5 minutes while tossing or stirring often until tender-crisp.
3. Transfer it to a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
1. Sprinkle in the beef in a single layer, avoiding touching it for one minute.
2. After one minute, stir or flip it with cooking tongs, cooking for another minute until it’s browned but slightly rare.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the broccoli back into the pan with beef.
1. Pour in your prepared sauce.
2. Stir/toss everything together until fully coated and cook until the sauce has thickened (about 1-3 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Beef and Broccoli dinner!
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
Serving beef and broccoli is a delightful experience that brings flavors together in a satisfying meal. Here are some great ways to serve this dish to make it even more enjoyable.
With Rice
- Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Brown Rice: A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that’s perfect for those watching their carbs.
With Noodles
- Lo Mein Noodles: Tossed with the beef and broccoli, they absorb the sauce perfectly.
- Rice Noodles: Gluten-free option that still provides a great texture with the dish.
As a Wrap
- Lettuce Wraps: Use crisp lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with beef and broccoli.
- Tortilla Wraps: Flour or corn tortillas can be used for a hearty meal on the go.
With Salad
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with sesame dressing complements the flavors of beef and broccoli.
- Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad balances the savory flavors of the dish.
How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
To achieve the best results with your beef and broccoli, consider these tips for perfecting your dish.
- Choose Quality Meat: Selecting flank steak ensures tenderness and flavor.
- Slice Against the Grain: This technique makes each bite easier to chew, enhancing your meal’s enjoyment.
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Aim for medium-rare to keep it juicy and tender; it cooks quickly!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will elevate your dish’s flavor profile significantly.
- Make Sauce Ahead of Time: Prepare your sauce in advance to save time during cooking.
- Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes if you like extra heat!
Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
Pairing side dishes with beef and broccoli can enhance your overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options.
- Fried Rice: Flavorful rice stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce makes a hearty side.
- Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed veggies like carrots or snap peas add freshness without overpowering.
- Egg Rolls: Crunchy and filled with vegetables or meat, they provide a delightful contrast in texture.
- Miso Soup: A light soup that complements the richness of beef and broccoli wonderfully.
- Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried spring rolls can add a crispy element when served alongside your main dish.
- Quinoa Salad: A nutritious salad mixed with herbs and citrus that pairs well with savory meals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Beef and Broccoli, small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the prep: Failing to prepare all ingredients before cooking can lead to overcooked meat and soggy broccoli. Measure and chop everything ahead of time.
- Overcooking the beef: Cooking the beef for too long makes it tough. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink for tender slices.
- Ignoring sauce thickness: If the sauce isn’t thick enough, it won’t cling well to the beef and broccoli. Make sure to cook it until it fully coats the ingredients.
- Using low-quality soy sauce: The flavor of your dish depends heavily on the soy sauce. Choose a good quality low-sodium variety for the best taste.
- Not adjusting spice levels: If you prefer a spicier dish, don’t hesitate to add more crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Beef and Broccoli will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
- Place cooled Beef and Broccoli in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring often until warmed through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth while reheating, stirring until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Beef and Broccoli.
What is the best cut of beef for Beef and Broccoli?
Flank steak is ideal due to its tenderness when sliced thinly against the grain. It absorbs flavors well too.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works well but may require slightly longer cooking time compared to fresh broccoli florets.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I customize this Beef and Broccoli recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
What should I serve with Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles, making it a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!) is not only quick but also delivers fantastic flavors that rival any takeout option. With its versatile nature, you can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try – it’s bound to become a family favorite!
Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!) is the ultimate weeknight meal that brings together tender flank steak and vibrant broccoli in a rich, homemade sauce. This quick and easy recipe requires just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings when you crave something delicious without the hassle of takeout. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is not only satisfying but also budget-friendly. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Elevate your dinner routine with this flavorful Beef and Broccoli stir-fry that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak
- 3–4 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/4 cup (packed) brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
Instructions
- Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Cook broccoli for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp; set aside.
- In the same skillet, add more oil and cook beef in a single layer for about 2 minutes until browned but slightly rare.
- Return broccoli to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir until everything is well-coated and sauce thickens (about 1-3 minutes). Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
